" Ditt og Datt "

A clutch of Norwegian-Scottish Anniversaries

01 May 2012An ambush in Gudbrandsdal, a highland lodge in Vest Agder, and Norway’s first oil refinery are the unusual features of a clutch of Norwegian-Scottish anniversaries this year.

Myth and reality mix in celebrations at Gudbrandsdal with the marking of the 400th anniversary of an unfortunate clash between Norwegian peasants and Scots mercenaries at Kringen in August 1612. En route to serve the King of Sweden in the Kalmar War, a small column of Scots was ambushed at the narrowest pass of the valley, and with their capture was born a lasting romantic myth of Norwegian peasant prowess and independence. The real story of Kringen is not in the least glorious, of course, but fact and fiction hardly matter, for friendships and festivities are the only theme of celebrations taking place in Gudbrandsdal 18-23 August this year. The organisers promise ‘peace, reconciliation and cultural collaboration’ as the focus of an exciting programme of exhibitions and tours. More here.

Meanwhile, in Vest Agder county in southern Norway, preparations are underway for two celebrations connected with the famed Salvesen family of Leith. Åseral municipality is marking the 100th anniversary of the idyllic ‘highland lodge’, Lordehytta, which was built for Scottish lawyer Lord Edward Salvesen (b1857) on a heathery outcrop overlooking a beautiful hill-sheltered loch. Both an exhibition telling the Salvesen story and a special guided visit are planned. The organisers are especially keen to renew old and happy connections with their Scots friends and hope to welcome all on the main anniversary day, 9th September, with a rousing skirl o’ the pipes! More here.

Out of the mountains and down to the coast, the Salvesen theme continues too in the nearby municipality of Mandal. At Risøbank house, built for the Salvesen family by Scottish architect Robert Lorimer, celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Salvesen-founded paraffin oil company Mandal Parafin-Olje Fabrikk will be marked too. Visitors to Risøbank can enjoy beautiful gardens, exhibitions, and lazy walks on the beach by the house. Morehere.

Barn av regnbuen

26 April 2012Today, in Oslo, and all over Norway, folk gathered in song to reclaim a loved lyric and reclaim the future. In Youngstorget alone, huddled in the rain, some 40,000 gave fresh voice to Barn av regnbuen - Children of the rainbow. Video here.

Norwegian escape boat in Scottish harbour

26 January 2012 Some 70 years after a daring voyage from occupied Norway, a small Norwegian boat which landed on Scotland's eastern shore is about to make its journey home. Video here

Snow Queen lights Edinburgh's Norwegian Christmas tree

01 December 2011 Edinburgh's Christmas got off to a bright and brilliant start this year with the tradtitional lighting of the Norwegian Christmas tree on the Mound. For over a quarter century, the city has enjoyed the gift of a tree from Hordaland County Council in thanks for support given Norway during WWII. Braving gale force winds, the snow queen cast her magic, delighting the crowds and lighting up the tree.

A taste of Norway

07 April 2011En smak av Norge - a taste of Norway was the theme of NSA Chairman Michael Hansen-Just's Norsk Mat / Norwegian Food evening held this month at our 'home' venue, the Norwegian Consulate, Edinburgh. Following a few introductory words on Norwegian cuisine, members and guests were invited to enjoy a range of Norwegian delicacies. Our thanks to all who helped with preparation and serving - not least our surprise New York visitor! And to our new members too - haste ye back!

Tribute to Founder Member

28 March 2011NSA Chairman Michael Hansen-Just paid tribute to retiring Committee Member Jorid McQuillan at the Association AGM in March. Jorid was a Founder Member of the Association in 1966 - the only woman amongst the 18 Founders! She has been a loyal and energetic supporter of the Association - serving also for several years as Chairman - and we wish her well.

Our Association, which meets in Edinburgh, provides an opportunity for Scots, Norwegians and friends to get together and to celebrate important Norwegian events. Whether you have a family connection with Norway, or just a love of Norwegian or Scottish culture, why not come and join us? Ye'll surely find a 'hearty welcome'!

Did You Know?

Norwegian Princess - Scottish Queen

Margreta Eiriksdatter - 'The Maid of Norway', was the daughter of Eric II of Norway and the granddaughter of Alexander III of Scotland. On the death of her Scottish grandfather, the young Norwegian princess inherited the Crown of Scotland and preparations were made for her coronation at Scone. But the sea voyage from Norway, made late in the year, proved too much, and she died before reaching Orkney.

Margreta (born Bergen 1283, died Orkney 1290) is buried at Kristkirken (Christ's Kirk) at Holmen, Bergen. A memorial stone stands at the spot.